Gujarat Launches Intensive FMD Vaccination Drive to Protect Livestock
Gujarat combats Foot and Mouth Disease with a state-wide vaccination campaign.
Top Summary
- What happened: Gujarat has initiated a large-scale vaccination campaign against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).
- Why it matters: FMD outbreaks cause significant economic losses for farmers due to reduced animal productivity.
- What changes: Livestock owners are urged to participate in the vaccination drive to protect their animals.
- Who is affected: Cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, and dairy farmers across Gujarat are the primary beneficiaries.
Gujarat Fights Foot and Mouth Disease
The Government of Gujarat has launched an intensive vaccination campaign targeting Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). The initiative aims to safeguard livestock and the livelihoods of dairy farmers.
The campaign began on March 1, 2026, and will continue until April 15, 2026, under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP).
Understanding Foot and Mouth Disease
Foot and Mouth Disease is a highly contagious viral infection. It affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, buffaloes, sheep, and goats.
Symptoms include fever, mouth ulcers, and excessive salivation. The disease leads to a decline in milk production and overall animal productivity.
NADCP Vaccination Drive
The vaccination campaign is part of the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP). The nationwide initiative seeks to control and eventually eradicate FMD and other livestock diseases.
Veterinary teams are conducting large-scale vaccinations of cattle and buffaloes across Gujarat. Experts emphasize that vaccination drives twice a year are essential for effective disease prevention.
Digital Monitoring and Tracking
Livestock are being identified through ear-tagging. Their details are then uploaded to the Information Network for Animal Productivity and Health (INAPH) portal.
This digital platform allows authorities to track vaccination coverage. It also helps monitor livestock health and ensure comprehensive protection.
Support and Participation
The vaccination campaign has received support from local farmers and dairy cooperatives.
Officials are visiting villages to vaccinate livestock and raise awareness about disease prevention. In many villages, a significant proportion of cattle have already been vaccinated.
Authorities believe that sustained and large-scale vaccination efforts will help control the disease and protect dairy farmers' livelihoods across Gujarat.
Key Facts to Remember
- FMD affects cloven-hoofed animals: cattle, buffaloes, sheep, and goats.
- NADCP aims to control and eradicate livestock diseases, including FMD.
- The INAPH portal digitally tracks livestock productivity, health, and vaccination data.
- Regular vaccination drives are conducted twice a year to prevent FMD.
What to Watch Next
Authorities will continue monitoring the vaccination progress and disease prevalence across Gujarat. The effectiveness of the campaign in reducing FMD outbreaks will be closely evaluated in the coming months.